| Ogadim |
So I currently have a level 5 Shielded Fighter in what is my first real, sustained D&D campaign. He is currently partied with a Magus (primary damage dealer), Alchemist/Rogue (drinks/throws potions and sneak attacks), Witch (buff/debuffs), and a Cleric (buffs/heals). At level 6 and 11 I will be taking Shield Slam and Shield Master, respectively, and am curious what different routes I can take with the 4 feats in between (5 if I respec a previous feat at level 8).
Here are his current stats:
Str 16
Dex 15
Con 16
Int 11
Wis 12
Cha 8
Armor: Full Plate
Main Hand: Heavy Mace +1
Shield: Spiked Steel Heavy Shield
Feats: Improved Shield Bash, Shield Focus, Weapon Focus (Shield Bash), Weapon Specialization (Shield Bash), Two Weapon Fighting, Double Slice
I've currently come up with 3 different paths I can take depending on what role would suit my team best. I'd like to know if you can think of any others or ways to improve the ones I currently have come up with.
Attacks of Opportunity, Shield Slam abuse:
Combat Reflexes
Power Attack
Improved Bull Rush
Greater Bull Rush
All-in shield bash damage:
Vital Strike
Double Slice --> something?
Greater Weapon Focus (Shield Bash)
Devastating Strike
Lunge
Walking AC Boost:
Combat Reflexes
Saving Shield
Bodyguard
Standstill
Right now I'm leaning towards the first option in order to be a bully on the battlefield and help control positioning for my casters. The second option is a distinct possibility if I want to just blow things up. My GM has agreed with my interpretation that a Spiked Heavy Shield of Bashing does 2d6 as its base which makes Vital Strike fairly strong. The third option I am least likely to go for as my group doesn't have many other characters that prefer to get in the face of the enemy like I do.
Would love to hear your thoughts or potential alternate builds to look into.